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MID → GDL
Which side of the plane to sit from Licenciado Manuel Crescencio Rejon Int Airport (Merida) to Don Miguel Hidalgo Y Costilla International Airport (Guadalajara)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a front-row seat to Mexico's legendary Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt, including the country's highest peaks and the massive Lake Chapala upon approach to Guadalajara.
Celestún Biosphere
Shortly after takeoff from Merida, look down to see the pink-hued lagoons and wetlands famous for flamingo colonies.
Bay of Campeche
Dramatic views of the coastline as the plane leaves the Yucatan Peninsula and crosses the Gulf of Mexico waters.
Pico de Orizaba
Mexico's highest peak (Citlaltépetl) is clearly visible rising above the clouds during the transition from the coast to the interior.
Popocatépetl & Iztaccíhuatl
The iconic smoking 'Popo' and the 'Sleeping Woman' volcanoes often appear to the south as you pass the Puebla-Mexico City corridor.
Lake Chapala
Mexico's largest freshwater lake provides a stunning deep blue contrast to the rugged terrain just before landing.
Book a morning flight to avoid the afternoon convection clouds that often obscure the volcanoes. Sit behind the wing for unobstructed views of Pico de Orizaba. During winter months, the sun will be lower in the south, so be prepared for some glare on this side.
Progreso Shoreline
Views of the long pier at Progreso and the turquoise waters of the northern Yucatan coast during the initial climb.
Sierra Madre Oriental
The rugged ridges of the eastern mountain range provide a textured landscape as the flight moves inland.
The Bajío Plateau
Observation of the fertile agricultural heartland of Mexico, characterized by diverse patchwork fields and rolling hills.
Guadalajara Metropolitan Area
Depending on the wind direction, you may get a sweeping view of the city's growing skyline and Zapopan district on the final approach.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights as you'll have the sun behind you, providing excellent lighting for photography of the Sierra Madre mountains. It is generally the 'cooler' side of the plane during this westbound route.
Distance: 1,420 km (882 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 54 min
Departure: MID (20.9370002747, -89.657699585)
Arrival: GDL (20.521799087524418, -103.31099700927734)
Route Type: Domestic
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